Isobelle Lowe is a New Colombo Plan mobility grant recipient from the University of New South Wales. Isobelle undertook the Indonesian Language Short Course at Satya Wacana University in Salatiga during the summer university break in 2019.
Q: Why did you decide to undertake ACICIS’ Indonesian Language Short Course?
I decided to undertake the ILSC to fast-track my studies but completing a unit over the summer break as well as to learn Indonesian in a new context.
Q: What do you find to be the most challenging about the ILSC?
Salatiga is a bustling city – it can be noisy and everyone beeps at you!
Q: Have you had previous experience learning Indonesian in Australia? If so, how different is in-country Indonesian language learning to your previous experiences? If not, how do classes in Indonesia compare to classes in Australia?
The ILSC classes are more interactive and high speed as it is an intensive program.
Q: Would you like to return to Indonesia for future study or work?
Yes!
Q: What have you enjoyed most about the course?
Being able to focus so much on one subject!
Q: What do you like to do in your spare time in Salatiga?
I enjoy visiting other cities in central Java.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian food? And your favourite place to eat?
Singkong (cassava – a starchy tuber like a sweet potato) leaves from local warungs and wartegs.
Q: What is your favourite Indonesian phrase?
Indomaret – it’s like an Indonesian 7/11!